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Design and Characterization of a Novel Nanocarrier System for Enhanced Dissolution and Bioavailability of Efinaconazole

Patil Ganesh, Dr. Deepika Gupta, Dr. Deepika Gupta, Dr. Sudha Vengurlekar, Dr. Sudha Vengurlekar, Dr. Sachin Kumar Jain, Dr. Sachin Kumar Jain

Abstract


Background: Efinaconazole is a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal agent widely used for the treatment of onychomycosis and other fungal infections. However, its poor aqueous solubility limits drug dissolution, permeation, and therapeutic efficacy. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems offer a promising strategy to improve solubility, dissolution rate, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of poorly soluble drugs.

Objective: This study was undertaken to develop and evaluate an Efinaconazole-loaded nanoparticle formulation to enhance its solubility, dissolution behavior, antifungal activity, and stability.

Methods: Nanoparticles containing Efinaconazole were prepared using suitable biodegradable polymers and surfactants by nanoprecipitation or solvent evaporation techniques. The formulations were optimized using Design of Experiments (DoE). Prepared nanoparticles were characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, drug loading, morphology, crystallinity, and thermal behavior. In vitro drug release, solubility enhancement, permeation studies, antifungal efficacy, and stability assessments were carried out.

Results: Nanoparticle encapsulation notably reduced particle size and increased surface area, which led to enhanced aqueous solubility and dissolution rate.

Conclusion: Nanoparticle-based delivery systems can effectively improve the pharmaceutical performance of Efinaconazole and represent a promising approach for the treatment of fungal infections.


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